A Fast Landing Control Method for Full-wing Solar-powered UAV by Using Propeller Thrust Reversal

To solve the problem of full-wing solar-powered UAVS’ long landing time and long landing distance, a fast landing control method using propeller thrust reverse is proposed. First, a longitudinal dynamic model of a solar-powered UAV with a full-wing layout is established. Then, based on the theory of active disturbance rejection control(ADRC), the pitch attitude control law is designed as the inner loop control law. After that, using propeller thrust reverse to consume system energy, a speed control law which uses the pitch angle command as the control output is designed to have the rapid landing approach of the drone. Finally, a climb speed control law and rollout control strategy are designed for the landing flare, touchdown and rollout process. The simulation results show that the control method can effectively shorten the landing time and distance of full-wing solar-powered UAV and has good wind resistance ability. Due to the low computational complexity of the controller and the use of measurable physical quantities, it provides a reference scheme for further engineering application.